(August 18, 2020 – Windsor, CA) — Renowned pinot noir winemaker and Kosta Browne co-founder Michael Browne has launched CHEV Wines, a new endeavor from his estate winery in the heart of the Russian River Valley.
Michael, the consummate craftsman, has realized a dream of creating a regional wine brand, that draws inspiration from an industrial age when artisans spent countless hours of grit and hard work to craft their wares with expert precision.
“I can’t stay idle,” says Browne. “Since moving to Sonoma County in the early nineties, I’ve always dreamt of having my own family winery. A place where I can be hands-on in every fine detail and have the freedom to continue to innovate and pursue my craft. Building Kosta Browne with Dan Kosta and Chris Costello was very rewarding. Creating CIRQ in the fall of 2009 gave me an incredible opportunity to pay respect to both my family’s colorful history and my own experience in the performing arts.”
“Launching CHEV has deep meaning to me as well. Born from watching my father work in his shop crafting the most detailed pieces, to my own raw inspiration to create something that has the same timeless feel. My quest is simple; craft the most delicious wine possible from my Russian River Valley backyard and expand our footprint to new regions that I have personally been connected to and intrigued by,” says Browne.
Both CHEV and CIRQ are a part of a stable of wines under Browne Family Wines. “We have a solid team, and their passion and dedication to our family and wines, makes this incredibly special. Our newly renovated estate property will be open to host members by appointment in spring 2021. These two brands are now my sole focus, and with a winery of my own, I can create the finest wines and experiences that connect with people in a very meaningful and personal way,” says Browne.
The estate property, located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, is a hilltop gem, surrounded by spectacular 360-degree views. This place fits CHEV and CIRQ perfectly and will be their permanent home for many years to come.
Wines:
- CHEV Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2018 – $80
- CHEV Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2018 – $80
About CHEV. Wines
CHEV is sparked by Michael’s love and appreciation for old school workmanship. From classic cars to vintage clocks, CHEV pays tribute to bygone days when artisans crafted in their forge and the raw was hand-wrought to expert precision. Just like our grapes—exquisitely grown by master farmers, curated from renowned sites, and refined to delicious detail in our family shop. Crafted in a style all its own, CHEV is unbounded by region, born from exceptional vineyards, near and far. We welcome you to Join the Guild – limited release coming September 2020. To learn more, please visit: www.chevwines.com.
About CIRQ.
CIRQ launched in 2009, with Michael’s passion to make delicious wines from Russian River Valley’s most exceptional sites. Inspired by his childhood circus-performing days, our winery ringmaster brings the same intense study, balance, and finesse to CIRQ – superbly blending the highest quality fruit from the Valley’s prime vineyards. The result is the best Pinot Noir possible through his lens, where uncommon breeding meets unprecedented flavors for the ultimate expression of this magical region. To learn more, please visit: www.cirq.com.
